Police are now in a position to release the name of a man who died on Matakana Island on New Year's Day.

Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Rawlinson says 22-year-old Freedom James Te Patu Taikato died following an incident on the island.

"The homicide investigation is on-going with teams continuing to work on Matakana Island and in Tauranga."

Earlier this week, Craig said Police will not be releasing cause of death at this time.

Officers would like any person who was present at the temporary camping ground on Matakana Point Road on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day to make contact with Tauranga Police on (07) 577 4300.

Alternatively, information can also be left anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.